San Gimignano is a small, medieval city in Tuscany, Italy well-known for its many towers. As many as 72 towers once stood in San Gimignano, and it was an important relay point for pilgrims travelling to/from Rome. Today, many tourists visit San Gimignano to learn more about its history, see the towers and the gorgeous views of the Tuscan hills.
Last Saturday I decided to visit San Gimignano for myself after hearing to many wonderful things about it. Here are some tips and tricks I learned for visiting San Gimignano:
- San Gimignano is easy to get to. If you have a car or are renting one, it’s an easy drive from many places within Tuscany and there are parking lots just outside the city walls. There is also bus service multiple times a day from Siena (which is what I did), and train service to Poggibonsi from Florence or Siena, where you can then catch a bus to San Gimignano. Be sure to check the times of the buses and be prepared to wait. Many times, the buses are late or just don’t show up. It happens, just be flexible. I had to wait nearly 2 hours for a bus in Poggibonsi, when I should have only had to wait 30 minutes.
- January isn’t the most ideal time to visit (depending on what you want to experience). While the streets were nearly empty and there were very few tourists, many of the shops and restaurants in town were closed for the whole month and into February. There were still restaurants and shops open to buy souvenirs your choices just might be limited. The views were still breath taking, and the main attractions still open so if you don’t want to fight the crowds, then it’s the right time to visit for you. However, if you looking to try the best gelato shops and do a lot of shopping, try going closer to peak season.
- Take your time to wander the streets. I didn’t have much of a plan for my day, and spent my time just exploring as many corners of the city as I could. There are hidden gems all over the city.
- Torre Grossa has spectacular views, but not the only views. Since it was January, I couldn’t go all the way to the top of the tower either. Instead, the path was closed ¾ the way up the tower with only windows to look out of. While Torre Grossa provides the best view (at least that I found) of the actual city, I believe Rocca di Montestaffoli has even better views of the countryside.
The view from Torre Grossa
View from Torre Grossa
View from Torre Grossa
View from Rocca di Montestaffoli
View from Rocca di Montestaffoli
View from Rocca di Montestaffoli
No matter what time of year it is, it is easy to fall in love with San Gimignano. It is worth the trip, even just to take in the views for a few hours.
Until next time,
Ashley
Never Stop Wayfaring 